Give

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

John 14:27

Therefore, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head."  Do not be overcome by evil, but over come evil with good."

Romans 14:20-21 

Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

1 Timothy 4:15

God has given us so much!  He gave us His Son Jesus and His amazing word!  Giving encompasses all of the things that we have discussed so far.  Give to God (thanks, time, treasure, glory), to others, and yourself.  It is a manifestation of learning about ourselves through the learning of God's word.  Love allows us to give with a pure heart, not out of obligation or ulterior motives.  When we really and truly love someone, not as the world loves, we can give more than we ever thought possible.  The world teaches us to love, but it is counterfeit.  Through the gift that God gave us, we can give the hurts and anxiety to the only one who can really carry the heavy burdens of our life in this world.  The things that happen will not hold us down and we are able to give of ourselves freely.  There is no greater gift than to really and truly give.  The beauty is that we all grow closer and others are encouraged.